Focus: Invest in Relationships: Vietnam is a key priority in Australia’s regional economic strategy. Speaking on the sidelines of last week’s Australia- Vietnam Alumni Business Forum 2025 in HCMC, Ms. Sarah Hooper, Australia’s Consul-General, shared insights with The Saigon Times on Australia’s investment in Southeast Asia.
Inside Vietnam
Building A Government That Serves, Not Rules: Once again, the Prime Minister emphasized the urgent need for reform during a recent meeting with the business community, urging the effective implementation of the Politburo’s Resolution 68-NQ/TW.
For A Greener, Stronger Grid: According to a recent report by SSI Securities Corporation, the prime minister issued Decision No. 768/QD-TTg on April 15, 2025, approving the revised National Power Development Plan VIII (Revised NPDP VIII), replacing the earlier version approved in May 2023.
Why Ethics Matter More Than Ever In Business: Preventing counterfeit goods requires tackling the problem at its roots and controlling supply at the source, said Dr. Huynh Thanh Dien at Nguyen Tat Thanh University in an interview with The Saigon Times.
Business
The Hidden Costs of Cross-Border Investing: The U.S. stock market holds enormous appeal for investors and speculators around the world due to its efficiency, size, liquidity and depth. However, many individuals are unable to access this market through official channels because of legal restrictions related to nationality and residency. Seizing on this demand, various organizations and individuals have found ways to “circumvent the law” to offer related services—activities that carry significant risks.
Industrial Real Estate Feels The Pressure: Real estate stocks have made a strong recovery over the past two months, with a clear divergence emerging between commercial and industrial properties.
Navigating Global Trade Uncertainty: Vietnamese businesses are bracing for continued global trade uncertainties and surging costs, yet remain confident in their ability to expand internationally, according to HSBC’s 2025 Global Trade Pulse Survey released last week.
Living
Rising Above Stereotypes: In today’s world, women pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is no longer uncommon. Actively encouraged by society, this shift seeks to dismantle barriers, stereotypes, and gender-based discrimination that have long hindered women’s progress. Professor Iwona Miliszewska, Dean of the School of Science, Engineering & Technology at RMIT Vietnam, recently shared insights with The Saigon Times, shedding light on the challenges women face in STEM and the steps needed to promote equality and growth in these fields.
Hue Kicks Off Summer Festival: The Hue Community Ao Dai Week 2025, scheduled from June 6 to June 15, unfolds as a vibrant tapestry of activities designed to honor the quintessential traditional ao dai and elevate Hue’s rich cultural profile.
Travel
Rice Seedlings On Muong Hum’s Terraced Fields: Nestled in a secluded valley of Bat Xat District, Lao Cai Province, Muong Hum is an emerging destination for travelers looking for authentic highland experiences. Each year, from May to June, the region enters its flooded rice season. Early summer rains replenish the terraced fields, setting the stage for a new planting cycle.
Tasting Unique Rice Noodle Soup In Mekong Delta: Originating from southern Vietnam’s early days of settlement, bánh canh bột xắt nấu nước cốt dừa — a type of thick rice noodle soup cooked in coconut milk — remains a beloved traditional dish. While rustic in appearance, its preparation is both meticulous and rich in local culinary heritage.
